The first theosophical branch of Brussels was established in 1897 by Ernest Nyssens and Elisabeth Carter. This Belgian physician, born in Chimay in 1868, spent his career integrating alternative medical practices including homeopathy, naturopathy, and nutrition into the European landscape. His death occurred in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode in 1956, marking the end of nearly nine decades of activity.
Medical Studies and Homeopathy
Nyssens completed his studies in homeopathy within the United States. Following this training, he introduced these methods to his home country of Belgium. His medical philosophy incorporated elements of naturopathy, specifically drawing from the theories developed by Sebastian Kneipp. During the early 20th century, he maintained an active presence at a naturist and theosophical institute located in Ter Nood, Overijse, between 1910 and 1915.
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Beyond his medical practice, Nyssens held a significant role in the theosophical movement. By the 1930s, he served as a bishop in the Free Catholic Church. From 1921 until 1938, he acted as director for Communauté Monada, an educational community in Uccle. This institution focused on holistic living, providing students with vegetarian meals, access to a large public garden, and instruction in Swedish gymnastics. The facility closed at the onset of World War II. In 1935, he married Berthe Deseck-Nyssens, who served as the secretary general of the Belgian Theosophical Society.
Advocacy for Vegetarianism
Nyssens was a prominent proponent of vegetarianism, founding the Belgian Vegetarian Society and serving as editor for its publication, La Reforme Alimentaire. His expertise in nutritional therapy led to the 1901 release of his work regarding the vegetarian treatment of diabetes, published by the French Vegetarian Society. His involvement extended internationally, serving on the International Vegetarian Union Provisional Committee in 1909 and presenting as a speaker at the 1913 congress. He also authored La Cuisine rationnelle, précis d'hygiène alimentaire in 1900.
Fast facts
- Born: 1868, Chimay
- Died: 1956, Saint-Josse-ten-Noode
- Citizenship: Belgium
- Spouse: Berthe Deseck-Nyssens
- Primary Fields: Homeopathy, naturopathy, vegetarianism
- Notable Role: Bishop, Free Catholic Church
- Community Directorship: Communauté Monada (1921–1938)
Questions readers ask
What was the Communauté Monada?
It was a theosophical educational community in Uccle directed by Nyssens from 1921 to 1938 that emphasized vegetarian nutrition and physical exercise.
Did Nyssens contribute to medical literature?
Yes, he authored works such as La Cuisine rationnelle and a 1901 book on the dietary treatment of diabetes.
Achievements
- Fields: alternative medicine, nutrition and homeopathy
